Limb Lengthening Surgery Prices and Influential Factors in the Process
Limb lengthening surgery has become an increasingly applied complex surgical procedure in recent years, both for medical and cosmetic purposes. Based primarily on the principle of gradual and controlled bone elongation, this operation requires long-term monitoring and precise surgical techniques. Therefore, prices and the duration of the procedure vary depending on multiple factors.
The fundamental principle of limb lengthening surgery usually involves surgically fracturing the tibia (shinbone) or femur (thighbone) and gradually separating the bone segments with the help of special devices to stimulate new bone formation. One of the most widely used techniques is the Ilizarov method, developed by the Russian orthopedic specialist Gavriil Ilizarov. This method is highly successful for both deformity corrections and lengthening procedures.
Prices vary across Turkey and worldwide depending on the healthcare center, equipment used, surgeon's experience, and the extent of the surgery. On average, limb lengthening surgeries in Turkey cost between 50,000 TRY and 150,000 TRY. This broad range is due to factors such as the hospital's facilities, type of lengthening device, surgery duration, hospital stay, radiological and clinical follow-ups. Furthermore, cosmetic lengthening procedures can differ from surgeries aimed at correcting congenital deformities in terms of process and cost.
The preoperative stage begins with specialist consultations. The patient’s overall health, bone structure, need for lengthening, and expectations are thoroughly evaluated. Advanced imaging techniques and biomechanical analyses may also be necessary in some cases. These evaluations impact the overall cost.
The surgical procedure includes bone osteotomy and the application of the lengthening device. Operation times generally range from 3 to 6 hours depending on the patient's age and bone condition. While minimally invasive (closed) techniques are preferred, some cases may require open surgery. The device type and manufacturer significantly influence the price. Aside from the Ilizarov ring fixator, other modern techniques include monolithic or motorized rods, each affecting the cost differently.
Postoperative care is equally important as the surgery itself. The lengthening process usually continues over several weeks during which patients make daily minor adjustments to the device. Regular monitoring, strict sterilization protocols to prevent infection, and physical therapy programs are essential during this phase. The rate and amount of lengthening are tailored to the patient's bone healing capacity.
Other influential factors during the process include the patient’s age group, bone density, and general health factors such as smoking. Younger patients tend to heal faster and with fewer complications, while adults may have a slightly higher risk. Additionally, the presence or emergence of complications such as non-union, deformity, or infection affects both cost and treatment duration.
Since limb lengthening surgery requires surgical skill and intensive patient monitoring involving a multidisciplinary team, it should be evaluated not only based on cost but also on the quality of the center and surgeon. A procedure performed by an expert orthopedic surgeon can significantly improve success rates and the patient’s quality of life.
In summary, limb lengthening surgery prices vary widely due to many variables. The choice of the Ilizarov or other lengthening techniques, hospital facilities, patient health status, and postoperative care needs are critical determinants. Coordinated planning between the patient and medical team before and after the surgery directly contributes to treatment success.